TikTok denies blocking access in Northern Nigeria amid reported disruptions

Social media platform TikTok has denied deliberately restricting access to its services in parts of Northern Nigeria following complaints from users experiencing difficulties accessing the application.

The company said it was working with relevant stakeholders to address the reported disruptions and restore normal access for affected users.

TikTok’s Head of Communications for Sub-Saharan Africa, Keagile Makgoba, made the clarification in a statement issued on Monday.

According to Makgoba, the reported restriction was not imposed by TikTok, although the company acknowledged concerns about users’ ability to access its platform.

Users report difficulties in four northern states

The clarification followed reports that TikTok users in Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi and Sokoto states had experienced difficulties loading videos, viewing content and uploading materials.

The disruptions were reported to have begun around September 14, raising concerns among social media users, content creators and digital rights organisations.

A coalition of civil society organisations subsequently called for an independent investigation into the difficulties.

The organisations urged the relevant authorities and telecommunications operators to establish whether the problem resulted from technical failures, network restrictions or other factors.

TikTok promises continued engagement

TikTok maintained that it had not introduced restrictions affecting Northern Nigeria and said it remained committed to providing access to users.

The company also indicated that it was engaging stakeholders to address the situation.

As of the latest statement, the precise cause of the reported disruptions had not been publicly established.

The situation has drawn attention to the importance of reliable internet access for Nigerians who use social media platforms for communication, entertainment, content creation and business.